Combination current sensor and relay

ABSTRACT

A combination current sensor and relay has an improved housing. In one aspect, the housing includes light emitting diodes on an upper surface that indicate open circuit and short circuit conditions. In another aspect, the housing includes a securement structure for a circuit board that includes the transformer and switches for device operation, together with aligned openings therein for routing wires to external devices. In another aspect, a multiple position switch is included on the upper surface that indicates multiple modes of operation of the device. In another aspect, the housing may be assembled in multiple parts by affixing a first portion to a support, a circuit board to the first portion, and a second portion to the first portion. In another aspect, the housing is suitable for engagement to alternatively a junction box and a duplex box. In another aspect, the configuration of the upper surface provides usability advantages.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0001] The present invention relates to a housing for a combinationcurrent sensor and relay.

[0002] One of the trends in many industrial environments is to use anever increasing number of electrical devices that include small motors,such as motors incorporated with fans. Typically such small motors onlydraw a limited amount of current, such as 1-10 amps. To provide faultdetection for electrical devices having limited current requirements, acurrent sensor is electrically interconnected with the power cable tothe electrical device to sense the electrical load current. The currentsensor may include an electrical interconnection to a remotely locatedcontrol panel to provide a signal to the control panel representative ofthe current within the power cable. It is desirable to locate such acurrent sensor within a housing, such as a starter housing within asubstation. The current sensor or an associated relay may beinterconnected to a separate starter, if desired. A relay is typicallyelectrically interconnected between the remotely located control paneland the electrical device to receive a control signal from the controlpanel and in response selectively enable or disable power to theelectrical device. Like the current sensor, such a relay may be locatedwithin the starter housing. In addition, the relay may function as thestarter if the power rating of the relay is appropriate. Because ofdecreasing starter housing sizing, the relay and current sensor may beenclosed within a single unitary housing. Such a device is disclosed inU.S. Pat. No. 5,808,846, incorporated by reference herein.

[0003] Referring to FIG. 1, Functional Devices, Inc. of Russiaville,Ind., manufacturers a Model RIBXLSA combination current sensor and relay10. Referring to FIG. 1, the device 10 includes a starustop relay 12that is energized or otherwise controlled by the digital output of acontroller 14. Power from a power source 16 is provided by a wire 18which is interconnected to the start/stop relay 12 of the device 10. Thestart/stop relay 12 is likewise interconnected to an internal sensor 20by a wire 22, namely, a current sensor in the form of a transformer. Theoutput of the internal sensor 20 is interconnected to a load 24 by awire 26. The load 24 is interconnected to the source 16 by a wire 28.Accordingly, a loop for current flow is provided by wire 18, thestart/stop relay 12, the wire 22, the internal sensor 20, the wire 26,and the wire 28. When the starustop relay 12 is open, as a result of thecontroller 14, the power to the load 24 is interrupted (open circuit).Likewise, when the start/stop relay 12 is closed, as a result of thecontroller 14, power is provided to the load 24 (short circuit).Accordingly, the controller 14 may control power to the load 24 byenergizing and de-energizing the start/stop relay 12. The device 10 mayinclude a closed/open/auto switch 21 for enabling the operation of thestarustop relay 12. Other applications of the device 10, are illustratedin FIGS. 2 and 3. A solid state switch 21 measures the current level tothe load 24 and provides an open/closed signal to the controller 14based on the current level.

[0004] Referring to FIG. 4, the combination current sensor and relay 10Model RIBXLSA from Functional Devices, Inc. is packaged in a rectangularhousing 40 with a threaded opening 42 on the lower portion though whichare passed a pair of wires 18 and 26. The wires 18 and 26 are connectedin series with the power cable to the load as shown in FIGS. 1-3:Internal to the housing 40 are a set of four wire connectors 110 towhich the control wires to the controller 14 are attached. To access thefour wire connectors 110 the rear panel 44 is removed. The control wiresmay be passed through an opening 46 in the upper left hand side, anopening 48 in the upper right hand side, or both, as desired. Thetextual and graphical indication for which connectors correspond to thesolid state switch 21 and to the relay 12 are provided on the back panelof the device. A set of three light-emitting-diodes 50, 52 and 54 areprovided on the top of the housing 40. The right hand diode 54 providesan indication as to whether the relay is energized. The left hand pairof diodes 50 and 52 provides assistance in adjusting the set point forthe current level of the solid state switch 21. When the central diode54 is activated the current is over the trip point. When the left handdiode 50 is activated the current is under the tri point. Apotentiometer that is accessed within the housing 40 when the back 44 isremoved adjusts the set point for the switch 21. The switch 21 includessome hysteresis. To adjust the device 10, the potentiometer is decreased(turned counterclockwise) until the central diode 52 turns on (mayalready be on). The potentiometer is then increased (turned clockwise)until the left hand diode 50 turns on. Then the potentiometer isdecreased (turned counterclockwise) until the central diode 52 turns on.This properly adjusts the current level. The instructions for adjustingand the meaning for the light emitting diodes are provided within thehousing 40. A closed/open/auto switch 56 is provided on the left handpanel of the housing 40. Likewise, the instructions for the settings ofthe switch 56 are provided on the back panel of the housing 40. Theentire housing 40 is secured to a wall by a set of four screws at thecorners thereof.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0005] The present invention overcomes the aforementioned drawbacks ofthe prior art by providing a combination current sensor and relay withan improved housing. The housing has several aspects which result inimproved functionality. In one aspect, the housing includes lightemitting diodes on an upper surface that indicate open circuit and shortcircuit conditions. In another aspect, the housing includes a securementstructure for a circuit board that includes the transformer and switchesfor device operation, together with aligned openings therein for routingwires to external devices. In another aspect, a multiple position switchis included on the upper surface that indicates multiple modes ofoperation of the device. In another aspect, the housing may be assembledin multiple parts by affixing a first portion to a support, a circuitboard to the first portion, and a second portion to the first portion.In another aspect, the housing is suitable for engagement toalternatively a junction box and a duplex box. In another aspect, theconfiguration of the upper surface provides usability advantages.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0006]FIG. 1 is a diagram of a HID single fixture with a combinationcurrent sensor and relay device.

[0007]FIG. 2 is a diagram of an exhaust fan with a combination currentsensor and relay device.

[0008]FIG. 3 is a diagram of a panel mounted combination current sensorand relay device.

[0009]FIG. 4 is a pictorial view of a combination current sensor andrelay.

[0010]FIG. 5 is a pictorial view of an exemplary embodiment of acombination current sensor and relay housing of the present invention.

[0011]FIG. 6 is a top view of the housing of FIG. 5, including a baseportion and a top portion.

[0012]FIG. 7 is a top view of the base portion of FIG. 6.

[0013]FIG. 8 is a top view of the base portion of FIG. 7 with a circuitboard secured thereon.

[0014]FIG. 9 is a side view of flexible members securing the circuitboard to the base portion.

[0015]FIG. 10 is a pictorial view of the housing being secured to a 4Sjunction box.

[0016]FIG. 11 is a pictorial view of the housing being secured to aduplex box.

[0017]FIG. 12 is a pictorial view of the housing being secured to asurface.

[0018]FIG. 13 is a top view of a threaded member.

[0019]FIG. 14 is an exemplary circuit diagram for the present invention.

[0020]FIGS. 15A and 15B is an alternatively exemplary circuit diagramfor the present invention.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENT

[0021] The present inventors came to the realization that while thehousing for the aforementioned combination current sensor and relayRIBXLSA is functional, it has limitations that become important when thedevice is mounted in a small enclosure, such as a starter housing withina substation.

[0022] First, the three status light emitting diodes are on the topsurface of the housing making them difficult to observe if the device ismounted deep within a starter housing at any level other than the user'seye level. For example, when mounted in a starter housing near thefloor, the user will need to excessively bend down to observe the lightemitting diodes on the top of the housing. Also, when mounted in astarter housing near the ceiling, the light emitting diodes on the topsurface may be obscured by the upper portion of the front panel. Inaddition, the textual and graphical indications for the meaning of eachdiode are provided on the back panel of the housing, which is notobservable when mounted in the starter housing. Accordingly, the usermust memorize the meaning of each of the diodes or carry an extra deviceto read the textual and graphical indications therefrom.

[0023] Second, the closed/open/auto switch is located on andindependently secured to the side of the housing making it difficult tooperate when the housing is mounted adjacent an upright left hand wallof the starter enclosure or another device. Also, the switch isdifficult to observe if the user is not directly aligned with the leftside of the housing. In addition, the textual and graphical indicationfor the meaning of the three settings of the switch is provided on theback panel of the housing, which is not observable when mounted in thestarter housing. Accordingly, the user must memorize the meaning of eachof the positions or carry an extra device to read the textual andgraphical indications therefrom.

[0024] Third, the rear panel of the housing must be removed in order forthe control wires to be installed. This necessarily requires the devicenot be mounted within the starter housing because when mounted the rearpanel is secured to the wall of the starter housing. Unfortunately, itis cumbersome to install the control wires when the device is unmountedand thereafter mount the housing to the wall of the starter housing withthe control wires attached. In addition, if the user is not careful thecontrol wires may end up being to short to mount the device whereintended. Further, the textual and graphical indication for the functionof each of the connections for the control wires is provided on the backpanel of the housing.

[0025] Fourth, the housing is installed on a flat surface, such as theback wall of a starter housing through a set of four openings providedtherein. In addition, the present inventors came to the realization thatsuch a combination current sensor and relay would be more versatile ifmountable on a duplex box, a junction box, and a surface, andelectrically connected thereto.

[0026] Referring to FIGS. 5 and 6, the improved housing 70 for acombination current sensor and relay of the present invention includestwo separate portions, namely a base portion 72 and a top portion 74.Referring also to FIG. 7, the base portion 72 includes a pair ofsupports 74 a and 74 b and a central set of fingers 76 which supports anenclosed circuit board 73 (see FIG. 8). A pair of resilient members 78 aand 78 b flexibly bend and engage the circuit board with protrusions tosecure it in place within the housing 70 on the supports. To remove thecircuit board 73, the flexible resilient members 78 a and 78 b arepulled away from the circuit board 73 thereby releasing the circuitboard 73 (see FIG. 9). This provides an easy way of removing the circuitboard 73 from the housing 70 if it needs to be replaced, therebyalleviating the need to replace the entire device. In addition, a pairof openings 80 a and 80 b are provided in the back of the base portion72 in front of the resilient members 78 a and 78 b (directly under theprotrusions) so that the members may be pulled away from the circuitboard 73 by prying with a suitable device, such as a small screwdriver,from the back of the device thereby releasing the circuit board 73.

[0027] The base portion 72 includes a pair of openings 82 and 84 at theopposite corners thereof spaced at an appropriate location for securingthe base portion 72 to a standard junction box, such as a 4S junctionbox 86 as shown in FIG. 10. The openings 82 and 84 are slightly oblongto permit a little movement of the base portion to make alignment of theopenings 82 and 84 with the junction box 86 easier. The base portion 72also includes a pair of openings 88 and 90 therein at the bottom and topof the central portion spaced at an appropriate location for securingthe base portion 72 to a standard duplex box 92 as shown in FIG. 11. Thetop opening 90 is slightly oblong to permit a little movement of thebase to make alignment of the openings 88 and 90 with the duplex box 94easier. In addition, a central opening 96 is provided in the centralportion of the base portion 72 to permit the routing of the power wires18 and 26 therethrough for connection within the junction box 86 orduplex box 94. Without the central opening 96 in the base portion 72,the device would need to be mounted to an adjacent surface with thepower wires routed therefrom into the junction box or duplex box, whichis inconvenient. Further, with multiple openings in the base portion 72,the same base portion 72 may be installed on multiple boxes, such as theduplex and junction boxes. This reduces the necessary inventory forusers and increases the flexibility of the different uses for thedevice. In addition, with the wires routed through one or more of theopenings in the sides thereof, the device may be mounted on a surface,such as a flat surface of a starter housing, as shown in FIG. 12.

[0028] The fingers 76 surrounding (in a circumferential relationship)the opening 96 are spaced to engage the protrusions of a threaded metalmember 98 as shown in FIG. 13. The threaded metal member 98 is placedwithin the fingers 76 and thereby prevented from rotating or substantialrotation. The engagement of a threaded member 98 to a pipe is normallyperformed by pressing engagement of the pipe thereon while turning thepipe. In addition, with the circuit board 73 supported by the fingers76, the threaded member 98 will not become disengaged by raising abovethe fingers 76 when a pipe is rotatably pressingly engaged therewith.

[0029] The control and power wires may be routed through the openings inthe sides, as necessary. The openings defined by both the top portion 74and the base portion 72 include one or more ribs 100 which engage aprotrusion of the threaded member 98 when supported therein. Inaddition, the ribs 100 are sufficiently recessed so that the face of thethreaded member 98 is also in at least in partial face to face opposingrelationship with the side. Accordingly, when the top portion 74 andbase portion 72 are engaged with one another the threaded member 98 isprevented from significant rotational movement and also prevented fromsignificant lateral movement. Thus the sufficiently threaded member 98is retained in place to secure a threaded member thereto.

[0030] The base portion 72 includes a pair of threaded posts 104 and 106to which a pair of screws are secured through the top portion 74 whenengaged therewith.

[0031] By securing the top portion 74 to the base portion 72, while thebase portion 74 is secured to the supporting device, such as a surfaceor a box, the top portion 74 may be removed to allow access to thecircuit board 73 therein without removal of the entire housing 70 fromthe supporting device or surface. Accordingly, the base portion 72 maybe attached to a supporting surface. Then the circuit board 73 isdetached to permit easier assess the central opening 96 in the baseportion 73, if necessary. The power wires 18 and 26 are routed throughthe appropriate opening and the control wires are attached to theconnectors 100 (see FIG. 8). Textual indications indicating the functionof each connector 110 are provided on the circuit board 73 adjacent theconnector, such as relay (+) (−) and status. Thus, when a user installsthe control wires and power wires, the device may be previously securedin the desired location, so that the length of the controls wires andpower wires may be accurately determined. Also, the textual and/orgraphical indications of the function of the control wires is providednext to the connectors so that it is less likely that the user willinstall the control wires improperly. In addition, without the need tosearch for the textual and/or graphical indications for the functions ofthe connectors 110 the user will likely install the connectors faster.

[0032] A relay 120, a transformer 122, a potentiometer 132, three lightemitting diodes 124, 126, 128, the connectors 110, and a switch 130 aresupported by the circuit board 73. Accordingly, when any of theelectrical or mechanical devices fail, the entire circuit board 73 maybe easily replaced as a single unit. This alleviates the need totroubleshoot individual components connected to different portions ofthe housing. The relay may be any type of switching circuit, as desired.The transformer may be directly connected in series or at leastpartially encircle the power cable. The relay and switch may be designedto sense any type of signal, such as a voltage, current, short circuit,and open circuit. The controller is preferably a programmable logicdevice.

[0033] Referring again to FIG. 6, the top portion 74 is secured to thebase portion 72 with a pair of screws. The switch 130 is providedthrough an opening 136 in the top portion 74. Locating the switch 130 onthe frontal surface permits easy access to the switch 130 and easyidentification of the state of the switch. Textual and/or graphicalindications 134 for the operation of the switch 130 are provided on thetop member. The textual and/or graphical indications 134 of theoperation of the switch 130 being provided on the front surface make iteasy for the user to recall the operations of the switch, without theneed to look at other uninstalled devices, a manual, or rely on theuser's memory. In addition, the switch 130 is recessed from the uppersurface 138 of the top portion 74 which reduces the overall height ofthe device while simultaneously locating the switch 130 at a locationless likely to become inadvertently bumped thereby interrupting orunintentionally providing power to the load. The upper upright surface140 above the left hand upright surface 142 partially surrounding theswitch 130 provides a stop for a users finger to hold the finger inposition above the switch 130 so that the switch 130 may be more easilyoperated, especially when the user is wearing gloves. In addition, suchupright surfaces 140 and 142 stop and maintain the finger of a user inposition above the switch 130 while testing the electrical load evenwhen the housing 70 is in an awkward location, such as the back of astarter housing.

[0034] The light emitting diodes 124, 126 and 128 and set pointadjustment 132 (potentiometer) are provided through a set of openings144 in the top portion 74. Locating the light emitting diodes on thefront (upper) surface permits easy reading of the status and adjustmentof the set point from the front of the housing 70. Textual and/orgraphical indications 146 for the function of the set point and lightemitting diodes are provided on the top portion 74. The textual and/orgraphical indications 146 of the operation of the diodes and set pointbeing provided on the front surface 148 make it easy for the user torecall the operation of the diodes and set point, without the heed tolook at other devices nor open the device to adjust the set point. Inaddition, the set point and light emitting diodes are proximate theswitch and recessed from the upper surface 138 of the top portion 74 andfurther recessed from the surface 137 with the switch 130. When the useris adjusting the switch 130 his finger will likely partially obscurefrom view the surface 148 proximate the light emitting diodes and setpoint. However, by further recessing the surface 148 proximate the lightemitting diodes the user will be more likely to observe the status ofthe light emitting diodes by observing the diodes at an angle thereofunder the finger. It is unlikely that the finger of a user on the switchwill totally obscure the surface 148 further recessed therefrom.

[0035] Referring to FIG. 14, an exemplary circuit (similar infunctionality to FIGS. 1-3) includes a start/stop relay, an internalcurrent sensor, and a switch circuit. The power cables areinterconnected to a terminal block. The terminal block is interconnectedto a switch circuit that provides an on-off-on functionality. With theswitch in the upper position, referred to as the hand mode, the terminalblock is electrically connected across a transformer with the start/stoprelay effectively removed from the circuit. Any power from the source tothe load is provided without interference by the combination currentsensor and relay device. With the switch in the central position,referred to as the off mode, the terminal block is open circuited. Anypower from the source to the load is open circuited. With the switch inthe lower position, referred to as the auto mode, the electronics areenabled. Any power from the source to the load is provided dependant onthe status provided to the relay coil contacts from the controller.

[0036] For the auto mode the connection of the contact jumper provideseither a normally closed or normally open functionality. Interconnectingpins 1 and 2 provides a normally closed condition to the relay, whileinterconnecting pins 2 and 3 provides a normally open condition to therelay. The power from the controller is preferably 24 volts, either ACor DC. If the input signal is AC then diode D1 rectifies the signal andprovides a DC voltage between the capacitor and the resistor. Lightemitting diode D2 provides a status indication to the user that therelay is energized. Energizing or de-energizing the relay changes itsstate and hence whether the circuit to the load is open or shortcircuited.

[0037] The primary of a transformer, generally referred to herein as aninternal current sensor, is electrically interconnected between theswitch and the terminal block. The secondary of the transformer providesa current (or voltage) signal representative of the current flowingbetween the terminals of the terminal block, and hence to the load. Apair of diodes provides alternating current clipping at 6.3 volts toprotect the remaining portions of the circuit and also provide areference voltage at the upper terminal of the secondary of thetransformer. A scaling resistor and potentiometer provides a scaledvoltage at the base of the diode. The diode and capacitor provide a ½wave rectifier functionality. A diode clamps the voltage to a maximum of9.1 volts. A positive voltage detector, such as a 4.1 volt detector,interconnects VDD to the output when the difference across its terminalsis greater than approximately 4.1 volts. The positive voltage detectorinterconnects VSS to the output when the difference across its terminalsis less than approximately 4.1 volts. The PDD has some built inhysteresis to avoid repetitively switching near the switching point,such as 4.1 volts. When the output of the PDD is high then transistor Q5is activated with diode D4 indicating an over current situation. Whenthe output of the PDD is low then transistor Q5 is not activated anddiode D5 is activated indicating an under current situation. Byadjustment of the potentiometer in combination with the diodeindications, the suitable current level may be obtained.

[0038] When the output of the PDD is high then transistors Q4A and Q4Bare activated thereby shorting the status terminals together. Thispermits DC or AC current to flow between the contacts. A pair of diodesprovides excess voltage protection, such as 47 volts. When the output ofthe PDD is low then Q4A and Q4B are not activated thereby providing anopen circuit between the terminals.

[0039] Referring to FIGS. 15A and 15B, an alternative circuit providesan additional set of contacts. Preferably the upper PDD and associatedcircuit provides an over current indication, such as a locked rotor.Preferably the lower PDD and associated circuit provides an undercurrent indication, such as a belt loss. Accordingly, the outputterminals provide both an over current and an under current indication.It is noted that the field effect transistors are provided for anormally open circuit and alternatively the non bipolar transistors areprovided for normally closed circuit. Both are not typicallysimultaneously included, or otherwise electrically interconnected, in anactual circuit.

[0040] The terms and expressions that have been employed in theforegoing specification are used as terms of description and not oflimitation, and there is no intention, in the use of such terms andexpressions, of excluding equivalents of the features shown anddescribed or portions thereof, it being recognized that the scope of theinvention is defined and limited only by the claims that follow.

What is claimed is:
 1. A protection device for monitoring current in apower cable to an electrical device comprising: (a) a transformermagnetically linked with said power cable connected to said electricaldevice, said transformer producing a voltage signal in response to thepresence of a changing current within said power cable; (b) a firstswitch circuit providing a signal to a remotely located controller inresponse to said sensing of said changing current; (c) a second switchcircuit sensing a signal from said remotely located controller and inresponse preventing said changing current from reaching said electricaldevice; (d) a housing enclosing said transformer, said first switch, andsaid second switch; (e) said housing including an upper surface defininga first, a second, and a third opening therein; (f) a first lightemitting device associated with said first opening that indicates atleast one of whether said second switch circuit is at least providingone of an open circuit condition and an short circuit condition; (g) asecond light emitting device associated with said second opening thatindicates at least one of whether said second switch circuit is at leastproviding one of said open circuit condition and said short circuitcondition; and (h) a third light emitting device associated with saidthird opening that indicates whether said second switch circuit isoperational.
 2. The protection device of claim 1 further comprising. (a)at least one of a first textual and a first graphical indication affixedto said upper surface and proximate said first opening indicating saidfirst light emitting device is associated with said open circuitcondition; (b) at least one of a second textual and a second graphicalindication affixed to said upper surface and proximate said secondopening indicating said second light emitting device is associated withsaid short circuit condition; and (c) at least one of a third textualand a third graphical indication affixed to said upper surface andproximate said third opening indicating said third light emitting deviceis associated with whether said third light emitting device isoperational.
 3. The protection device of claim 1 further comprising saidupper surface defining a fourth opening therein and an adjustment deviceassociated with said fourth opening that is adjustable to change thecriteria under which the at least one of said fist and second lightemitting devices are illuminated.
 4. The method of claim 3 wherein saidat least one first textual and said first graphical indication is“status open”.
 5. The method of claim 4 wherein said at least one secondtextual and said second graphical indication is “status closed”.
 6. Themethod of claim 3 wherein said at least one third textual and said thirdgraphical indication is an arc, said arc having a first end and a secondend where the width of said second end is greater than said first end.7. The protection device of claim 1 further comprising: (a) said uppersurface defining a switch opening therein; (b) a multiple positionswitch associated with said switch opening that includes at least afirst position, a second position, and a third position; (c) said firstposition associated with said protection device operating in a firstmode where said protection device said prevents said changing currentfrom reaching said electrical device in response to the level of saidchanging current; (d) said second position associated with saidprotection device operating in a second mode where said protectiondevice is free from preventing said changing current from reaching saidelectrical device; and (e) said third position associated with saidprotection device operating in a third mode where said protection deviceprevents said changing current from reaching said electrical devicewithout regard to said level of said changing current.
 8. The protectiondevice of claim 7 further comprising: (a) at least one of a firsttextual and a first graphical indication affixed to said upper surfaceand proximate said multiple position switch indicating said first mode;(b) at least one of a second textual and a second graphical indicationaffixed to said upper surface and proximate said multiple positionswitch indicating said second mode; and (c) at least one of a thirdtextual and a third graphical indication affixed to said upper surfaceand proximate said multiple position switch indicating said third mode.9. The protection device of claim 8 wherein said upper surface furthercomprises: (a) a first surface; (b) a second surface recessed from saidfirst surface defining said switch opening; and (c) a first uprightsurface interconnecting said first surface and said second surfacewherein said upright surface is “L” shaped.
 10. The protection device ofclaim 9 wherein said upper surface further comprises: (a) a thirdsurface recessed from said second surface defining a plurality ofopenings therein; (b) a second upright surface interconnecting saidsecond surface and said third surface; and (c) said third surfaceterminating on at least one side with a side of said housing.
 11. Theprotection device of claim 1 further comprising: (a) a circuit boardsupporting said transformer, said first switch, and said second switch;(b) a housing including at least an opening therein to connect at leastone wire between said remotely located controller and at least one ofsaid first switch and said second switch; (c) said housing including atleast a first portion and a second portion; (d) said first portionincluding a securement structure for selectively engaging said circuitboard; and (e) said second portion detachably engageable to said firstportion with said circuit board enclosed therein.
 12. The protectiondevice of claim 1 further comprising: (a) said housing including atleast one opening therein to connect at least one wire between saidremotely located controller and at least one of said first switch andsaid second switch; (b) said housing including a first securementstructure suitable to mount said housing to a duplex box; (c) saidhousing including a second securement structure suitable to mount saidhousing to a junction box; and (d) said housing including a thirdsecurement structure suitable to mount said housing to a flat surface.13. The protection device of claim 12 wherein said at least one openingincludes an opening defined in a back surface and an opening defined ina side surface.
 14. The protection device of claim 12 wherein saidhousing includes a first portion and a second portion that is detachablyengageable to said first portion.
 15. The protection device of claim 14wherein said first portion defines a first pair of openings thereinproximate the opposite corners thereof at a suitable location for saidmounting to said junction box.
 16. The protection device of claim 15wherein said first portion defines a second pair of openings therein ata suitable location for said mounting to said duplex box.
 17. Theprotection device of claim 16 wherein said at least one opening thereinis defined in a central region of said first portion.
 18. The protectiondevice of claim 17 wherein said at least one opening therein is definedin a side region of said housing.
 19. The protection device of claim 18wherein said housing is mounted on a flat surface.
 20. The protectiondevice of claim 1 further comprising: (a) a circuit board supporting sid transformer said first switch and said second switch; (b) saidhousing including at least a first portion and a second portion; (c)said first portion including a securement structure for selectivelyengaging said circuit board; (d) said second portion detachablyengageable to said first portion with said circuit board enclosedtherein; (e) said securement structure comprising at least one resilientmember that flexibly engages said circuit board; (f) said circuit boarddefining a board opening therein; (g) said first portion defining anaccess opening therein; and (h) said first opening generally alignedwith said second opening when said circuit board is engaged with saidfirst portion.
 21. The protection device of claim 20 wherein said atleast one resilient member includes a protrusion that is secured oversaid circuit board.
 22. The protection device of claim 20 furthercomprising a plurality of fingers in a circumferential relationship tosaid board opening.
 23. The protection device of claim 22 furthercomprising said plurality of fingers having a suitable length to supportsaid circuit board when engaged with said first portion.
 24. Theprotection device of claim 23 further comprising a threaded member withprotrusions spaced to engage said plurality of fingers when locatedwithin the periphery of said plurality of fingers.
 25. The protectiondevice of claim 21 further comprising said first portion defining aresilient member opening therein directly under said protrusion.
 26. Theprotection device of claim 24 wherein said threaded member is preventedfrom substantial rotation when engaged with said plurality of fingers.27. The protection device of claim 26 wherein said circuit boardprevents said threaded member from becoming disengaged from saidplurality of fingers when said circuit board is engaged with said firstportion.
 28. The protection device of claim 20 wherein said firstportion and said second portion together define a side opening in theside of said housing.
 29. The protection device of claim 28 wherein saidside opening is defined by a pair of sidewalls of at least one of saidfirst portion and said second portion.
 30. The protection device ofclaim 29 further comprising a plurality of ribs defined between saidpair of sidewalls.
 31. The protection device of claim 30 furthercomprising a threaded member with protrusions spaced to engage saidplurality of ribs when located within said side opening.
 32. Theprotrusion device of claim 31 wherein said pair of sidewalls retain saidthreaded member from becoming disengaged from said housing when retainedby said side opening.
 33. The protection device of claim 31 wherein saidthreaded member is in at least partial face-to-face opposingrelationship said sidewalls.
 34. The protection device of claim 31wherein said threaded member is prevented from significant rotationalmovement by said plurality of ribs.
 35. The protection device of claim 1further comprising: (a) a circuit board supporting said transformer,said first switch, and said second switch; (b) said housing including atleast a first portion and a second portion; (c) said first portionincluding a securement structure suitable to engage at least one of ajunction box and a duplex box; (d) said first portion including asecurement structure for selectively engaging said circuit board; and(e) said second portion detachably engageable to said first portion withsaid circuit board enclosed therein.
 36. A protection device formonitoring current in a power cable to an electrical device comprising:(a) a transformer magnetically linked with said power cable connected tosaid electrical device, said transformer producing a voltage signal inresponse to the presence of a changing current within said power cable;(b) a first switch circuit providing a signal to a remotely locatedcontroller in response to said sensing of said changing current; (c) asecond switch circuit sensing a signal from said remotely locatedcontroller and in response preventing said changing current fromreaching said electrical device; (d) a housing enclosing saidtransformer, said first switch, and said second switch; (e) said housingincluding an upper surface defining a switch opening therein; (f) amultiple position switch associated with said switch opening thatincludes at least a first position, a second position, and a thirdposition; (g) said first position associated with said protection deviceoperating in a first mode where said protection device said preventssaid changing current from reaching said electrical device in responseto the level of said changing current; (h) said second positionassociated with said protection device operating in a second mode wheresaid protection device is free from preventing said changing currentfrom reaching said electrical device; and (i) said third positionassociated with said protection device operating in a third mode wheresaid protection device prevents said changing current from reaching saidelectrical device without regard to said level of said changing current.37. The protection device of claim 36 further comprising: (a) at leastone of a first textual and a first graphical indication affixed to saidupper surface and proximate said multiple position switch indicatingsaid first mode; (b) at least one of a second textual and a secondgraphical indication affixed to said upper surface and proximate saidmultiple position switch indicating said second mode; and (c) at leastone of a third textual and a third graphical indication affixed to saidupper surface and proximate said multiple position switch indicatingsaid third mode.
 38. The protection device of claim 37 wherein saidupper surface further comprises: (a) a first surface; (b) a secondsurface recessed from said first surface defining said switch opening;and (c) a first upright surface interconnecting said first surface andsaid second surface wherein said upright surface is “L” shaped.
 39. Theprotection device of claim 38 wherein said upper surface furthercomprises: (a) a third surface recessed from said second surfacedefining a plurality of openings therein; (b) a second upright surfaceinterconnecting said second surface and said third surface; and (c) saidthird surface terminating on at least one side with a side of saidhousing.
 40. The protection device of claim 36 further comprising: (a)said housing including an upper surface defining a first, a second, anda third opening therein; (b) a first light emitting device associatedwith said first opening that indicates at least one of whether saidsecond switch circuit is at least providing one of an open circuitcondition and an short circuit condition; (c) a second light emittingdevice associated with said second opening that indicates at least oneof whether said second switch circuit is at least providing one of saidopen circuit condition and said short circuit condition; and (d) a thirdlight emitting device associated with said third opening that indicateswhether said second switch circuit is operational.
 41. The protectiondevice of claim 40 further comprising: (a) at least one of a firsttextual and a first graphical indication affixed to said upper surfaceand proximate said first opening indicating said first light emittingdevice is associated with said open circuit condition; (b) at least oneof a second textual and a second graphical indication affixed to saidupper surface and proximate said second opening indicating said secondlight emitting device is associated with said short circuit condition;and (c) at least one of a third textual and a third graphical indicationaffixed to said upper surface and proximate said third openingindicating said third light emitting device is associated with whethersaid third light emitting device is operational.
 42. The protectiondevice of claim 40 further comprising said upper surface defining afourth opening therein and an adjustment device associated with saidfourth opening that is adjustable to change the criteria under which theat least one of said fist and second light emitting devices areilluminated.
 43. The method of claim 42 wherein said at least one firsttextual and said first graphical indication is “status open”.
 44. Themethod of claim 43 wherein said at least one second textual and saidsecond graphical indication is “status closed”.
 45. The method of claim44 wherein said at least one third textual and said third graphicalindication is an arc, said arc having a first end and a second end wherethe width of said second end is greater than said first end.
 46. Theprotection device of claim 36 further comprising: (a) a circuit boardsupporting said transformer, said first switch, and said second switch;(b) said housing including at least an opening therein to connect atleast one wire between said remotely located controller and at least oneof said first switch and said second switch; (c) said housing includingat least a first portion and a second portion; (d) said first portionincluding a securement structure for selectively engaging said circuitboard; and (e) said second portion detachably engageable to said firstportion with said circuit board enclosed therein.
 47. The protectiondevice of claim 36 further comprising: (a) said housing including atleast one opening therein to connect at least one wire between saidremotely located controller and at least one of said first switch andsaid second switch; (b) said housing including a first securementstructure suitable to mount said housing to a duplex box; (c) saidhousing including a second securement structure suitable to mount saidhousing to a junction box; and (d) said housing including a thirdsecurement structure suitable to mount said housing to a flat surface.48. The protection device of claim 47 wherein said at least one openingincludes an opening defined in a back surface and an opening defined ina side surface.
 49. The protection device of claim 47 wherein saidhousing includes a first portion and a second portion that is detachablyengageable to said first portion.
 50. The protection device of claim 49wherein said first portion defines a first pair of openings thereinproximate the opposite comers thereof at a suitable location for saidmounting to said junction box.
 51. The protection device of claim 50wherein said first portion defines a second pair of openings therein ata suitable location for said mounting to said duplex box.
 52. Theprotection device of claim 51 wherein said at least one opening thereinis defined in a central region of said first portion.
 53. The protectiondevice of claim 52 wherein said at least one opening therein is definedin a side region of said housing.
 54. The protection device of claim 53wherein said housing is mounted on a flat surface.
 55. The protectiondevice of claim 36 further comprising: (a) a circuit board supportingsaid transformer, said first switch, and said second switch; (b) saidhousing including at least a first portion and a second portion; (c)said first portion including a securement structure for selectivelyengaging said circuit board; (d) said second portion detachablyengageable to said first portion with said circuit board enclosedtherein; (e) said securement structure comprising at least one resilientmember that flexibly engages said circuit board; (f) said circuit boarddefining a board opening therein; (g) said first portion defining anaccess opening therein; and (h) said first opening generally alignedwith said second opening when said circuit board is engaged with saidfirst portion.
 56. The protection device of claim 55 wherein said atleast one resilient member includes a protrusion that is secured oversaid circuit board.
 57. The protection device of claim 55 furthercomprising a plurality of fingers in a circumferential relationship tosaid board opening.
 58. The protection device of claim 57 furthercomprising said plurality of fingers having a suitable length to supportsaid circuit board when engaged with said first portion.
 59. Theprotection device of claim 58 further comprising a threaded member withprotrusions spaced to engage said plurality of fingers when locatedwithin the periphery of said plurality of fingers.
 60. The protectiondevice of claim 58 further comprising said first portion defining aresilient member opening therein directly under said protrusion.
 61. Theprotection device of claim 59 wherein said threaded member is preventedfrom substantial rotation when engaged with said plurality of fingers.62. The protection device of claim 61 wherein said circuit boardprevents said threaded member from becoming disengaged from saidplurality of fingers when said circuit board is engaged with said firstportion.
 63. The protection device of claim 55 wherein said firstportion and said second portion together define a side opening in theside of said housing.
 64. The protection device of claim 63 wherein saidside opening is defined by a pair of sidewalls of at least one of saidfirst portion and said second portion.
 65. The protection device ofclaim 64 further comprising a plurality of ribs defined between saidpair of sidewalls.
 66. The protection device of claim 65 furthercomprising a threaded member with protrusions spaced to engage saidplurality of ribs when located within said side opening.
 67. Theprotrusion device of claim 66 wherein said pair of sidewalls retain saidthreaded member from becoming disengaged from said housing when retainedby said side opening.
 68. The protection device of claim 66 wherein saidthreaded member is in at least partial face-to-face opposingrelationship said sidewalls.
 69. The protection device of claim 66wherein said threaded member is prevented from significant rotationalmovement by said plurality of ribs.
 70. The protection device of claim 1further comprising: (a) a circuit board supporting said transformer,said first switch, and said second switch; (b) said housing including atleast a first portion and a second portion; (c) said first portionincluding a securement structure suitable to engage at least one of ajunction box and a duplex box; (d) said first portion including asecurement structure for selectively engaging said circuit board; and(e) said second portion detachably engageable to said first portion withsaid circuit board enclosed therein.
 71. A protection device formonitoring current in a power cable to an electrical device comprising:(a) a transformer magnetically linked with said power cable connected tosaid electrical device, said transformer producing a voltage signal inresponse to the presence of a changing current within said power cable;(b) a first switch circuit providing a signal to a remotely locatedcontroller in response to said sensing of said changing current; (c) asecond switch circuit sensing a signal from said -remotely locatedcontroller and in response preventing said changing current fromreaching said electrical device; (d) a circuit board supporting saidtransformer, said first switch, and said second switch; (e) a housingincluding at least an opening therein to connect at least one wirebetween said remotely located controller and at least one of said firstswitch and said second switch; (f) said housing including at least afirst portion and a second portion; (g) said first portion including asecurement structure for selectively engaging said circuit board; and(h) said second portion detachably engageable to said first portion withsaid circuit board enclosed therein.
 72. A protection device formonitoring current in a power cable to an electrical device comprising:(a) a transformer magnetically linked with said power cable connected tosaid electrical device, said transformer producing a voltage signal inresponse to the presence of a changing current within said power cable;(b) a first switch circuit providing a signal to a remotely locatedcontroller in response to said sensing of said changing current; (c) asecond switch circuit sensing a signal from said remotely locatedcontroller and in response preventing said changing current fromreaching said electrical device; (d) a housing including at least oneopening therein to connect at least one wire between said remotelylocated controller and at least one of said first switch and said secondswitch; (e) said housing including a first securement structure suitableto mount said housing to a duplex box; (f) said housing including asecond securement structure suitable to mount said housing to a junctionbox; and (g) said housing including a third securement structuresuitable to mount said housing to a flat surface.
 73. The protectiondevice of claim 72 wherein said at least one opening includes an openingdefined in a back surface and an opening defined in a side surface. 74.The protection device of claim 72 wherein said housing includes a firstportion and a second portion that is detachably engageable to said firstportion.
 75. The protection device of claim 74 wherein said firstportion defines a first pair of openings therein proximate the oppositecorners thereof at a suitable location for said mounting to saidjunction box.
 76. The protection device of claim 75 wherein said firstportion defines a second pair of openings therein at a suitable locationfor said mounting to said duplex box.
 77. The protection device of claim76 wherein said at least one opening therein is defined in a centralregion of said first portion.
 78. The protection device of claim 77wherein said at least one opening therein is defined in a side region ofsaid housing.
 79. The protection device of claim 78 wherein said housingis mounted on a flat surface.
 80. A protection device for monitoringcurrent in a power cable to an electrical device comprising: (a) atransformer magnetically linked with said power cable connected to saidelectrical device, said transformer producing a voltage signal inresponse to the presence of a changing current within said power cable;(b) a first switch circuit providing a signal to a remotely locatedcontroller in response to said sensing of said changing current; (c) asecond switch circuit sensing a signal from said remotely locatedcontroller and in response preventing said changing current fromreaching said electrical device; (d) a circuit board supporting saidtransformer, said first switch, and said second switch; (e) a housingincluding at least a first portion and a second portion; (f) said firstportion including a securement structure for selectively engaging saidcircuit board; (g) said second portion detachably engageable to saidfirst portion with said circuit board enclosed therein; (h) saidsecurement structure comprising at least one resilient member thatflexibly engages said circuit board; (i) said circuit board defining afirst opening therein; (j) said first portion defining a second openingtherein; and (k) said first opening generally aligned with said secondopening when said circuit board is engaged with said first portion. 81.The protection device of claim 80 wherein said at least one resilientmember includes a protrusion that is secured over said circuit board.82. The protection device of claim 80 further comprising a plurality offingers in a circumferential relationship to said first opening.
 83. Theprotection device of claim 82 further comprising said plurality offingers having a suitable length to support said circuit board whenengaged with said first portion.
 84. The protection device of claim 83further comprising a threaded member with protrusions spaced to engagesaid plurality of fingers when located within the periphery of saidplurality of fingers.
 85. The protection device of claim 83 furthercomprising said first portion defining a resilient member openingtherein directly under said protrusion.
 86. The protection device ofclaim 84 wherein said threaded member is prevented from substantialrotation when engaged with said plurality of fingers.
 87. The protectiondevice of claim 86 wherein said circuit board prevents said threadedmember from becoming disengaged from said plurality of fingers when saidcircuit board is engaged with said first portion.
 88. The protectiondevice of claim 80 wherein said first portion and said second portiontogether define a third opening in the side of said housing.
 89. Theprotection device of claim 88 wherein said third opening is defined by apair of sidewalls of at least one of said first portion and said secondportion.
 90. The protection device of claim 89 further comprising aplurality of ribs defined between said pair of sidewalls.
 91. Theprotection device of claim 90 further comprising a threaded member withprotrusions spaced to engage said plurality of ribs when located withinsaid third opening.
 92. The protrusion device of claim 91 wherein saidpair of sidewalls retain said threaded member from becoming disengagedfrom said housing when retained by said third opening.
 93. Theprotection device of claim 91 wherein said threaded member is in atleast partial face-to-face opposing relationship said sidewalls.
 94. Theprotection device of claim 91 wherein said threaded member is preventedfrom significant rotational movement by said plurality of ribs.
 95. Aprotection device for monitoring current in a power cable to anelectrical device comprising: (a) a transformer magnetically linked withsaid power cable connected to said electrical device, said transformerproducing a voltage signal in response to the presence of a changingcurrent within said power cable; (b) a first switch circuit providing asignal to a remotely located controller in response to said sensing ofsaid changing current; (c) a second switch circuit sensing a signal fromsaid remotely located controller and in response preventing saidchanging current from reaching said electrical device; (d) a circuitboard supporting said transformer, said first switch, and said secondswitch; (e) a housing including at least a first portion and a secondportion; (f) said first portion including a securement structuresuitable to engage at least one of a junction box and a duplex box; (g)said first portion including a securement structure for selectivelyengaging said circuit board; and (h) said second portion detachablyengageable to said first portion with said circuit board enclosedtherein.
 96. A housing comprising: (a) said housing having a firstportion and a second portion; (b) said first portion defining asecurement structure suitable to interconnect said housing toalternatively a junction box and a duplex box; (c) said first portiondefining a central opening therein suitable for a plurality of wires topass therethrough into said junction box and said duplex box when saidhousing is secured to one of said junction box and said duplex box; and(d) said first portion detachably engageable to said second portion. 97.The housing of claim 96 further comprising: (a) a plurality of fingersin a circumferential relationship to said central opening; and (b) saidplurality of fingers having a suitable length to support a circuit boardengaged with said first portion.
 98. The protection device of claim Atfurther comprising a threaded member with protrusions spaced to engagesaid plurality of fingers when located within the periphery of saidplurality of fingers.
 99. The protection device of claim 98 wherein saidthreaded member is prevented from substantial rotation when engaged withsaid plurality of fingers.
 100. The protection device of claim 99wherein said circuit board prevents said threaded member from becomingdisengaged from said plurality of fingers when said circuit board isengaged with said first portion.
 101. The protection device of claim 96wherein said first portion and said second portion together define aside opening in the side of said housing.
 102. The protection device ofclaim 101 wherein said side opening is defined by a pair of sidewalls ofat least one of said first portion and said second portion.
 103. Theprotection device of claim 102 further comprising a plurality of ribsdefined between said pair of sidewalls.
 104. The protection device ofclaim 103 further comprising a threaded member with protrusions spacedto engage said plurality of ribs when located within said side opening.105. The protrusion device of claim 104 wherein said pair of sidewallsretain said threaded member from becoming disengaged from said housingwhen retained by said side opening.
 106. The protection device of claim103 wherein said threaded member is in at least partial face-to-faceopposing relationship said sidewalls.
 107. The protection device ofclaim 104 wherein said threaded member is prevented from significantrotational movement by said plurality of ribs.
 108. The protectiondevice of claim 96 further comprising: (a) said second portion definingan upper surface defining an opening therein for a multiple positionswitch; (b) at least one of a first textual and a first graphicalindication affixed to said upper surface and proximate said multipleposition switch opening indicating a first mode of operation; (c) atleast one of a second textual and a second graphical indication affixedto said upper surface and proximate said multiple position switchopening indicating a second mode of operation; and (d) at least one of athird textual and a third graphical indication affixed to said uppersurface and proximate said multiple position switch opening indicating athird mode of operation.
 109. The protection device of claim 108 whereinsaid upper surface further comprises: (a) a first surface; (b) a secondsurface recessed from said first surface defining said multiple positionswitch opening; and (c) a first upright surface interconnecting saidfirst surface and said second surface wherein said upright surface is“L” shaped.
 110. The protection device of claim 109 wherein said uppersurface further comprises: (a) a third surface recessed from said secondsurface defining a plurality of openings therein; (b) a second uprightsurface interconnecting said second surface and said third surface; and(c) said third surface terminating on at least one side with a side ofsaid housing.
 111. The protection device of claim 1 wherein saidtransformer is a wire-wrapped toroidal core at least partiallyencircling said power cable.
 112. The protection device of claim 1wherein said signal provided by said first switch circuit is a currentsignal.
 113. The protection device of claim 1 wherein said signalprovided by said first switch circuit is a voltage signal.
 114. Theprotection device of claim 1 wherein said preventing is an open circuitcondition.
 115. The protection device of claim 1 wherein said remotelylocated controller is a programmable logic device.
 116. The protectiondevice of claim 1 wherein said signal sensed by said second switchcircuit is at least one of a voltage signal and a current signal. 117.The protection device of claim 1 wherein said signal sensed by saidsecond switch circuit is at least one of a short circuit and opencircuit condition.